A couple weeks ago I pointed out an essay by Wil Wheaton where he discussed how political polarization has gotten in the way of family relationships. His springboard was a paternal meltdown over the (then proposed) clemency for Tookie Williams.

Turns out his parents don't agree with how they were portrayed in his original essay - and Wheaton agrees he made some assumptions he shouldn't have.

In a new essay, on his own blog, Wheaton shares portions of an interview he did with his own parents, and asks forgiveness from his parents for bruised feelings.

Well written and a worthy read. But I think he's too hard on himself. The first essay raised some legitimate and underdiscussed concerns about what polarization does to our families and our communities.

It's good that they can talk about politics calmly and rationally - sitting around the table after the fact. But the Gibsonesque meltdown occurred - and it's occurred to a lot of us.

Perhaps his writings (I wouldn't join in calling them mistakes) will lead some to think in advance instead of trying to patch things up afterwards.

Kudos to Wil Wheaton for sharing both parts of his exercise with the public. Far too few are willing to consider the feelings of others, admit they might have made some errors, and try to make amends. He's one of the most honorable of any stripe you'll find.

Crossposted from Gregprinceblog